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paint design under or over polyurethane?

I want to paint a picture on an oak stool and protect the remaining bare wood with polyurethane. Should I paint first, then polyurethane or vice versa? Also, any recommendations as to the type of paint? Is the type of polyurethane a concern? Thank you...the stool is a Christmas gist for my new niece!

You will want to do the design first and then urethane over it and I would use all acrylic products as an oil based urethane will turn yellow over time. If the stool already has a finish on it be sure to sand it to make sure you have good adhesion.